New York Farm Bureau News Bytes

#1: Interview with Christain Lewis on Young Farmers and Ranchers - 1/28/2026

In the first episode of the year, News Bytes kicks off with host Amanda Powers, Director of Communications, sitting down with Christain Lewis of Allegany County. Christain serves as a County Young Farmers & Ranchers Chair and District 1 representative and shares how his 4-H background led him to leadership roles within Farm Bureau and beyond. Recorded in Angelica, NY, along the Genesee River, this episode dives into Christain’s work raising 100% grass-fed Red Devon cattle, his involvement with Soil & Water Conservation, and why Farm Bureau has been a gateway to advocacy, networking, and real leadership opportunities for young farmers. Christain also speaks candidly about mental health in agriculture, the importance of programs like Farm State of Mind, and how Young Farmers & Ranchers are building the next generation of ag leaders across New York State.

#8: Interview with Pete Goderie at Goderie's Tree Farm - 12/17/2025

In this episode of News Bytes, we visit Goderie’s Tree Farm in Johnstown, NY, to sit down with Pete Goderie, a third-generation farmer whose family has been growing Christmas trees for more than 50 years. Pete shares expert tips on choosing, caring for, and responsibly disposing of your Christmas tree, plus the work that goes into growing and maintaining his trees. He also discusses how the farm has diversified over the years — and how he cut his workers’ comp insurance costs in half by joining NYFB’s Safety Group 486.

#7: Interview with Tom Denman on County Annual Meetings - 11/12/2025

In this episode of News Bytes, we sit down with Tom Denman, Associate Director of Membership Development and Engagement at New York Farm Bureau, to talk about how county annual meetings keep Farm Bureau’s grassroots spirit alive. Tom shares what makes these local gatherings so important — from raising resolutions and discussing hot topics like solar and ag exemptions, to building connections among farmers, agribusiness leaders, and community partners. He also explains how every Farm Bureau member, whether farmer or food advocate, plays a vital role in shaping the policies that impact agriculture across the state.

#6: Interview with Maureen Ballatori on AI and Agriculture - 10/8/2025

In this episode of News Bytes, we sit down with Maureen Ballatori, Founder & CEO of Agency 29, at New York Kitchen in Canandaigua, NY. Maureen shares how her farm roots shaped her passion for agriculture and how her creative agency helps food, beverage, and ag brands succeed. She also gives us a sneak peek into her keynote at the NYFB State Annual Convention, where she will address the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in agriculture – and how farmers can approach new technology as a helpful tool rather than something to fear.

#5: Interview with Rebekka Henriksen on Farm to School Program - 9/10/25

In this episode of News Bytes, we speak with Rebekka Henriksen, Farm to School Manager for the Schenectady City School District, about how Farm to School programs are changing the way kids and families connect with food in New York. Rebekka shares her journey from garden educator to managing 16 school gardens, orchards, and farm-to-family initiatives across the district. She explains how the Farm to School movement brings fresh, local produce into cafeterias, teaches students where their food comes from, and strengthens partnerships with New York farmers. We discuss food access in urban communities, the importance of school gardens, scratch cooking in cafeterias, and how hands-on learning helps children develop lifelong healthy eating habits. Rebekka also highlights how these programs support local agriculture and inspire the next generation of farmers. Recorded at Zoller Elementary School in Schenectady, New York, this episode shows why Farm to School is a win for kids, families, schools, and farms.